‘Hell’s Kitchen 23’ recap: 2 chefs make the finale after ‘One Hell of a Ride’
Tonight on Hell’s Kitchen — the top three are ready to prove they have what it takes in a final menu planning challenge. Each finalist will be assigned to a very special sous chef to help curate a personalized and showstopping five course meal. But first, the final three will be paid an emotional visit by their loved ones, receive a fabulous makeover, and visit Hell’s Kitchen Foxwoods for the first time.
The final three give their all, but only two will move on to the dramatic season finale in the all-new “One Hell of a Ride” episode of Hell’s Kitchen: Head Chefs Only airing Thursday, Jan. 30 (8-9 p.m. ET/PT) on Fox.
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The top three chefs: Egypt, Hannah, Kyle
The Family Reunion
In the early morning hours, the final three are surprised to see friends and family members show up in their dorm. Hannah’s mom and boyfriend, Kyle’s mom and aunt, and Egypt’s mom and brother all arrive with donuts and coffee. Egypt has the most emotional response — breaking down and sobbing in his mother’s arms.
Next, they’re joined by Gordon at a special brunch. Each contestant shares their determination to become his next head chef. Then they’re whisked off for makeovers before a special meeting with the team at Hell’s Kitchen Foxwoods. For one of them, it will be their new home. Finally, Gordon gives the chefs one final pep talk before their final challenge.
The Challenge
There’s just one more challenge each contestant will face before the final dinner service. All three must design a five-course menu with an assigned sous chef. James Avery joins Kyle, Kesha Tatro will teams up with Egypt, and Michelle Tribble assists Hannah. They have 60 minutes to whip up their meal before each course is scored by a guest judge — from one to 10 points. Below are the results.
Round 1 (Cold Appetizer): Judged by Sherry Pocknett
Egypt: 9
Hannah: 9
Kyle: 10
Round 2 (Hot Appetizer): Judged by David Shim
Egypt: 9
Hannah: 10
Kyle: 10
Round 3 (Fish): Judged by Stephanie Izard
Egypt: 10
Hannah: 8
Kyle: 9
Round 4 (Chicken): Judged by Douglass Williams
Egypt: 8
Hannah: 9
Kyle: 10
Round 5 (Beef): Judged by Jason Guyot
Egypt: 9
Hannah: 10
Kyle: 9
The Big Winners
With a total score of 48 points, Kyle was the winner of this challenge and the first chef to advance into the Hell’s Kitchen Season 23 finale. Joining him with a score of 46 points was Hannah.
The Big Loser
Finishing in last place with 45 points was Egypt. He missed the finale by just a single digit and was disappointed to be leaving the competition in third place. That didn’t stop him from congratulating the finalists and exiting Hell’s Kitchen with class. Egypt was grateful for the opportunity and will now help either Hannah or Kyle win the title.
Next Week
Hannah and Kyle will face off in the final dinner service before Gordon chooses the Season 23 winner of Hell’s Kitchen. Before this week’s episode ended, both Hannah and Kyle chose which eliminated contestants would serve in their brigade for the title. Below are their choices in the order selected.
Team Kyle: Brandon, Joe, Whit, Lulu
Team Hannah: Egypt, Brittany, Amanda, Ann Marie
Launch Gallery: 'Hell's Kitchen' Season 23 cast: Meet the 18 chefs competing in 'Head Chefs Only'
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